Whys my gum swollen

A swollen gum may result from plaque, trapped food, trauma, a cavity, an erupting tooth, or infection near a tooth or root.

Swelling may be limited to the gum margin, tissue over an erupting tooth, or a deeper abscess.

Rinse gently, brush carefully, clean between teeth, and do not squeeze or puncture the swelling.

Seek urgent care for rapidly increasing swelling, fever, facial swelling, pus, limited opening, or swallowing difficulty.

Ask whether the cause is gingivitis, abscess, wisdom-tooth inflammation, trauma, or another lesion.